A Blessed Visit by Representative John Lewis

October 26, 2016

Tears, laughter and
memories were shared during Representative John Lewis’ first visit to the
Motherhouse on October 26. Lewis was in town campaigning for Congresswoman
Louise Slaughter and decided to make the personal visit to pay tribute to the Sisters
who saved his life at Good Samaritan Hospital in Selma, Alabama on “Bloody
Sunday.” As Lewis walked through the Motherhouse, he paused to read and reflect
on the history wall. Sister Sharon
Bailey then welcomed him into the dining room which was packed with Sisters,
friends and employees. Lewis walked from
table to table, taking several moments to shake hands, embrace Sisters and
share a kind word or remembrance. Shortly after introductions from Sister Beth LeValley and Congresswoman Slaughter,
Lewis took to the podium and spoke before the group. He became emotional as he
reflected on the day more than 50 years ago when as a young civil rights
marcher he was nearly beaten to death on the Edmund Pettus Bridge.

“You saved me at Good
Samaritan. I was in bad shape. I had a concussion. I thought I was going to
die. I thought I saw death. But with your help, the help of God almighty, I’m
still here,” said Lewis. “Thank you for all that you have done and continue to
do to make our world a better place.”

While visiting, Lewis
also got to see the stained-glass window from the Good Samaritan Hospital
chapel that is proudly displayed in the Motherhouse. He said the sight brought
tears to his eyes. Lewis concluded his visit by sharing a prayer with the
Sisters.

Lewis’ last visit to
Rochester was in May of 2014 when Sister Barbara Lum invited him to be the
guest speaker at the Rochester Educational Opportunity Center (REOC) graduation
ceremony.